Yes, foxes can be stopped with mesh — but only if the openings are 1 inch or smaller, since anything larger gives these clever predators room to squeeze through.
Foxes may look sly and harmless, but they’re notorious for raiding chicken coops, rabbit hutches, and gardens. Their sharp teeth and persistence make them a real problem for farmers and pet owners alike.
The question of what size mesh to stop foxes is more than just a detail — it’s the difference between keeping animals safe and waking up to a disaster. Choosing the right mesh ensures a strong, reliable barrier that foxes can’t bite, squeeze, or dig through.
Why Mesh Matters in Fox Control
Foxes are clever predators that test every weakness in an enclosure. They can dig under, climb over, or squeeze through surprisingly small gaps if the mesh isn’t the right size or strength. That’s why the type of mesh you choose is just as important as the way you install it.
Using the wrong mesh, such as lightweight chicken wire or anything with large openings, gives foxes an easy chance to break in. Strong, tight mesh creates a physical barrier that outsmarts their digging and squeezing habits. For anyone raising poultry or rabbits, this simple choice can make all the difference in keeping animals safe.
Recommended Mesh Sizes for Stopping Foxes
The golden rule for keeping foxes out is to use mesh with openings no larger than 1 inch by 1 inch. This size is small enough to stop them from squeezing their heads or paws through, which is often the first step to tearing open a wider gap. A 19-gauge welded wire mesh at this size is widely recommended for coops and hutches.
For extra security, especially with poultry runs or rabbit enclosures, many farmers prefer ½-inch mesh. This finer size eliminates nearly all chances of penetration and provides peace of mind when fox activity is high. Larger mesh sizes, such as 2×2 inches, may look sturdy but are no match for a determined fox.
Materials and Durability
Not all mesh is created equal, and foxes can exploit weaker options quickly. Chicken wire, for example, is designed to keep poultry in, not predators out. Its thin strands are easy for foxes to chew or push apart, making it unreliable for long-term protection.
Welded wire mesh and galvanized steel are far better choices. These materials resist rust, hold firm against chewing, and last longer outdoors. Investing in heavy-duty mesh may cost more upfront, but it ensures durability and keeps your animals protected season after season.
Installation Tips for Fox-Proofing
Even the best mesh won’t work if it’s poorly installed. Farmers and pet owners often bury mesh at least 12–18 inches underground to stop foxes from digging their way inside. Adding an outward-facing mesh apron around the perimeter also strengthens the barrier and discourages digging.
Doors, corners, and joints are common weak spots, so reinforcing them with extra layers of mesh or secure fastenings is essential. Covering the top of enclosures with mesh or solid roofing prevents foxes from climbing in. Proper installation ensures the mesh does its job as a true fox-proof defense.
Combining Mesh with Other Defenses
Mesh is a strong barrier on its own, but pairing it with other defenses makes it even more effective. Many farmers add electric fencing along the perimeter to deliver a quick shock if a fox tries to climb or dig. This combination discourages repeated attempts and teaches predators to stay away.
Overhead protection is also important, since foxes are agile climbers. Covering poultry runs with solid roofing or additional mesh stops them from dropping in from above. By layering these defenses, farmers and pet owners create a system that outsmarts foxes from every angle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the biggest mistakes is relying on lightweight chicken wire. While it may keep birds contained, it offers little resistance against a determined fox. Another common error is leaving gaps larger than 1 inch, which gives foxes just enough space to push through and widen the opening.
Neglecting the base of enclosures is another weak spot. If mesh isn’t buried or reinforced at ground level, foxes can dig under with ease. Avoiding these mistakes saves time, money, and heartache by keeping your animals secure from the start.
Conclusion
The right mesh makes all the difference in stopping foxes from getting to your animals. A mesh size of 1 inch or smaller, made from durable materials like welded wire or galvanized steel, creates a barrier that foxes can’t bite through or squeeze past. Proper installation, especially at ground level, adds another layer of security.
Pairing strong mesh with other defenses like electric fencing or overhead covers ensures long-term protection. By choosing wisely and avoiding common mistakes, farmers and pet owners can keep their livestock safe and enjoy peace of mind knowing foxes are kept firmly outside the fence.
Call AAAC Wildlife Removal
If foxes are threatening your chickens, rabbits, or livestock, don’t wait for the damage to happen. Our team at AAAC Wildlife Removal provides safe, effective, and humane fox control solutions to protect your property.
